Jumping the Shark

Subway posters, now produced en masse by Restoration Hardware

Originally coined to mark the beginning of a television show's demise, "jump the shark" has become one of my favorite ways to describe the "over-ness" of something, be it a fashion look, a celebrity, or especially an element of home decor.

The phrase was created by a pair of clever fellows who noted that the moment when the TV series "Happy Days" began its decline coincided with the episode in which the Fonz attempted to jump a shark on his motorcyle... though the series continued for another seven (!) years after this incident, it was never quite the same.

I've been feeling lately that a lot of my once-favorite decor elements have jumped the shark...for me, once you start seeing the special things you love mass-produced by the likes of Pottery Barn, Restoration Hardware, etc., it's time to do one of two things: Store them away until people begin to forget they exist, or proudly accept that you still love something that has become part of the masses.

It also begs the question: where is the line between trend and classic, eloquently addressed HERE? When does something go from an "of the moment" decorating motif to a timeless element to be used again and again? It's a tough question...but is it even worth answering? Should we always follow our "decorating heart" and use what we love, despite where and how often we're seeing it elsewhere?

Have these iconic items jumped the shark? What do you think? Trend or classic?

Canopy chair from Restoration Hardware, re-introduced to most of us years ago by Kelly Wearstler in her projects for Bergdorf's, the various Viceroys, and more.

The ubiquitous "Keep Calm & Carry On" print, now seen on everything from tea towels to rugs to posters of all sizes sold by Amazon.com!

Moroccan Beni Ourain rugs, here used by Jonathan Adler at the Parker Palm Springs.

Cameroon headdress, most recently seen (by me, at least) on the wall of the divine Diane von Furstenberg's home (or one of them!)...pretty much all I need to see to feel okay with continuing to use them.

The Greek Key motif, revived in a big way as part of the resurgence of the Hollywood Regency design style.

Moroccan poufs

Let me go on the record as stating that I own (and continue to love) more than a few of the items listed above, and have a home filled with Chiang Mai and La Fiorentina, which perhaps gives some indication of my own philosophy on the issue of use/not use... but what do you think?